I think in this case it was a good idea. I don't think this type of thing can be done much more than a couple of times.

I think if the land management agency seeks restitution they should be allowed to triple the amount as a penality. This would be like a utility company if you dig up and damage their property with out a "Call Before You Dig" locate. They triple the cost of repair as allowed by law.

Most of those who do this type of offroading seem to not truly understand or care about the extreme negative effect it has on all of those who offroad responsibly. I know it comes up a lot but this seemed to be a little different punishment than normal - maybe it will help one person decide it is not worth the risk of getting caught.